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National Bank of Fujairah (NBF) recorded its highest operating profit of AED 375.9 million in 2010 compared to AED 318.6 million in 2009. The Bank recorded a profit of AED 170.9 million for the year compared to a profit of AED 104.3 million for 2009, a solid 64% growth in net profit driven mainly by its core business.

The provision for loan losses was AED 205.0 million for the year compared to AED 214.3 million for 2009. The Bank continues to be prudent and proactive in providing for potential loan losses in view of ongoing uncertain market conditions.

Operating income increased by 12.2% to AED 568.0 million in comparison to AED 506.5 million for 2009, reflecting strong core business performance and balance sheet management. Operating expenses of AED 207.7 million were 7.9% lower than 2009 operating expenses of AED 225.5 million. The Bank’s cost to income ratio improved to 36.6% as compared to 44.5% in 2009.

Net interest income grew by 10.2% to AED 360.1 million compared to AED 326.9 million in 2009. Non-interest income, at AED 207.9 million, was 15.8% higher than the AED 179.6 million in 2009. Exchange income, including derivative income, saw a growth of 20.0% to AED 42.3 million.

A gain on investment of AED 15.7 million was recognised through the statement of income, compared to AED 37.6 million for the corresponding period of 2009. The decline is in line with the Bank’s strategy to reduce market risk and an enhanced focus on its core business. Investment in funds was reduced to AED 42.3 million.

The loan book grew by 11.5% in an environment of subdued credit demand and reflected the Bank’s strong relationships with its core customers. Total assets grew to AED 12.9 billion from AED 11.9 billion at the end of 2009.

NBF’s capital adequacy ratio and liquidity position continues to be one of the strongest in the UAE. As of 31 December, the Bank’s AD ratio was 87.2% after absorbing a 6% drop in syndicated borrowing as its maturity falls within six months. NBF’s syndicated borrowing amounting to USD 210 million is set to mature on 25 June 2011.

H.H. Sheikh Saleh Bin Mohammed Al Sharqi, Chairman, commented:

“We are pleased to see the Bank make strong progress in achieving its best operating performance ever during these challenging times. The Bank has grown its core earnings which, coupled with a sharper focus on costs and balance sheet management, has helped absorb credit losses and grow profitable operations. I, on behalf of the Board of Directors, am pleased to recommend a distribution of profits by way of cash dividends of 6.2% of the paid-up capital.”

H.E. Sir Easa Saleh Al Gurg, Deputy Chairman, commented:

“The Bank’s performance is a testament to the success of its well-balanced strategy in these difficult times. The Bank leveraged its strong liquidity and capital position and grew its business prudently and efficiently in the local economy. Our business in Fujairah, in particular, saw a record growth in 2010. The Bank will continue to improve its market position by strengthening its customer-centric approach and product focus, and will continue to seek new lending opportunities as the market continues to recover.”

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Background information

National Bank of Fujairah was established in 1982 in the Emirate of Fujairah. Its key shareholders include the Government of Fujairah and the Government of Dubai. It is primarily a Corporate Bank with strong Trade Finance expertise, growing Retail Banking activities and a rapidly establishing franchise in Wealth Management and Commercial Banking.More...

National Bank of Fujairah was established in 1982 in the Emirate of Fujairah. Its key shareholders include the Government of Fujairah and the Government of Dubai. It is primarily a Corporate Bank with strong Trade Finance expertise, growing Retail Banking activities and a rapidly establishing franchise in Wealth Management and Commercial Banking.

National Bank of Fujairah intends to deepen its product range over the next few years by selectively expanding its Retail Banking services while continuing to build its Corporate and Commercial Banking services. The existing branch network stands at 12 in different Emirates.